TICKLING THE ENGLISH. Dara O’Briain. Michael Joseph £18.99.

FANS of TV show Mock The Week will be familiar with Dara O’Briain’s genial style – anyone who has ever seen him in stand-up mode will know the Irishman is a quick-witted and extremely funny comedian.

So now meet Dara the author – and what a good writer he is too!

This book charts a year on the road as Dara travels the length and breadth of Britain, occasionally taking flight to do a quick performance in Dublin.

Dara writes as he speaks, and as you read you can almost imagine the written words being spoken in his Irish brogue.

The picture of life on tour is vividly painted and proves an interesting and extremely funny read, with many laugh-out-loud moments which could prove embarrassing if you are reading it in a public place. You have been warned!

SANDRA MANGAN